Things to do in Rhodes

All about Rhodes

When to visit

Rhodes boasts Greece’s longest stretch of summery weather, which runs from April to October. Tourist season peaks in July and August, when the beaches are jammed and temperatures hover around 80°F (28°C). Annual festivals, such as the Medieval Rose Festival (which stretches over multiple weeks during the summer months), also bring an influx of visitors. For a mellower atmosphere and gentler temperatures, visit in early April, when the island is covered with wildflowers, or in October or November, when the sea is still warm enough for swimming.

Getting around

Rhodes is one of the larger Greek islands, so rent a car to explore inland areas. You can also rent bikes or scooters, but ride cautiously on the highways. Its KTEL buses are affordable and connect the town of Rhodes to the eastern resorts. Cabs are also plentiful and have set fares for long-distance trips. Rhodes Old Town doesn’t allow cars, but it’s easy to explore on foot. The city does have electric vehicles and hop-on-hop off buses you can use for longer distances.

Traveler tips

If you have a rental car, head off the main tourist track and explore the island’s tucked-away hamlets. One of the most interesting is Asclepios, north of Kiotari. The village is crowned by a crumpled 15th-century castle that was built by the Knights of St. John. Drive or walk up to the ruins for sweeping views of the island, then visit the Folklore Museum and the Byzantine church, and enjoy a well-earned lunch at a local taverna.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rhodes best known for?

Aside from constant summer sunshine, the island is famed for UNESCO-listed Rhodes Old Town, Europe’s oldest inhabited medieval city and home to the pristine Palace of the Grand Masters of the Knights of Rhodes. The island also boasts the whitewashed, Acropolis-crowned village of Lindos, beautiful beaches, lush valleys, and pine-coated hills.

How long do you need in Rhodes?

You need a minimum of a week. This allows time to experience the top-tier things to do in Rhodes, including tours of history-steeped Rhodes Old Town and picturesque Lindos and outings to wineries, classical ruins, and spots like the verdant Valley of the Butterflies. Stay longer to enjoy its sun-baked beaches.

Who built Rhodes Old Town?

The Medieval City of Rhodes was largely the work of the Knights of St. John, who occupied Rhodes from 1309 to 1523. They constructed the city from what was a fortified Byzantine settlement, protecting it with robust walls and building its imposing Palace of the Grand Master and inn-lined Street of the Knights.

What is the nicest part of Rhodes?

Many consider Lindos to be the prettiest spot, thanks to its shimmering, bougainvillea-festooned houses, paved lanes, and timeworn Acropolis. Others cite Rhodes Old Town, with its cobblestoned lanes, sturdy walls, and crenelated Grand Palace. Close behind is the rural area, where pine forests, wineries, red-roofed villages, and silvery olive groves reign.

Which is the best sandy beach in Rhodes?

For looks, it’s hard to beat St. Paul’s Bay. This gorgeous half-moon of sands is washed by teal-blue waters and overlooks the Acropolis of Lindos but it can get busy. Other beauties include Tsambika; the soft, picturesque, and often crammed Pefkos; and sandy Prasonisi, which is harder to access and quieter.

Is Rhodes cheap or expensive?

It can be cheap or expensive, depending on your list of things to do in Rhodes. Generally, it’s cheaper than trendy Greek islands like Santorini, but pricier than others like Crete. Accommodation and food costs mirror those across the Mediterranean, but you can go glam with luxe hotels and activities. There are numerous budget-friendly resorts, too, like Faliraki.

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